Artist of the day: East Hillsborough Community Band

The East Hillsborough Community Band was started three years ago by four men who simply wanted to have fun and play music together, including Tom Nelson, who serves as the organization's president.

"We were just four friends who loved to play," Nelson said.

Since then, the band has grown to nearly 50 members consisting of adults of all ages. Their mission statement: "provide an opportunity for musicians of all ages and skill levels to perform with a concert band and to foster the development of musicians who wish to make a cultural contribution to their community."

One such contribution is approaching as the band prepares for its patriotic music concert at 7 p.m. Thursday at First United Methodist Church in Brandon. Tickets are $5 at the door.